England achieved their highest T20 score on home soil in six years, scoring 197 for three at Southampton, and subsequently restricted New Zealand to 138 for nine, securing a 59-run victory. With the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh approaching, this performance underscored England's growing confidence.
New Zealand's innings began poorly, with Georgia Plimmer run out by Nat Sciver-Brunt and a rapid collapse of five wickets for four runs, highlighted by Sarah Glenn's three-wicket over. Suzie Bates noted their disappointing shot selection, which led to a quick 64 for five.
England's openers, Danni Wyatt and Maia Bouchier, dominated the power play with a 52-run partnership. Wyatt and Sciver-Brunt excelled against New Zealand's spinners, while Freya Kemp, promoted in the batting order, maintained pressure with her aggressive play. England's wickets fell mainly during attempts to accelerate the score, but coach Jon Lewis appreciated their aggressive, selfless approach.
Heather Knight's strategy of experimenting with four frontline spinners paid off, effectively stymieing New Zealand's response. Freya Kemp's return from injury, successfully bowling her full four overs and claiming a wicket, was a positive development ahead of the World Cup.